Every NBA player is looking to build a legacy. It’s human nature. You want to be remembered well. With that in mind, James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers is building quite the legacy – and it’s not what it could have been.
Harden’s talent is undeniable. He’s one of the best offensive players we’ve ever seen. During his time with the Houston Rockets, Harden was hitting statistical markers that only Wilt Chamberlain could surpass. Unfortunately, he’s been working hard to mitigate that reputation in recent years.
It feels like a negative report comes out about Harden every day. Rumors that he was too prideful to be an All-Star replacement only contribute to the negative perception of the superstar. All of this means that the Sixers will have a harder time moving him than they’d like. Could the Orlando Magic take a risk on Harden?
The Trade Proposal
Philadelphia 76ers Receive: F/C Jonathan Isaac, G/F Gary Harris, F Chuma Okeke, 2025 First-Round Pick (Top-5 Protected – DEN via ORL)
Orlando Magic Receive: G James Harden
Is the negativity around Harden fair? Some of it is, and some of it isn’t. Realistically, there’s been some bad will around Harden for years now. Some of it is justified, and some of it is narrative-driven.
For example, Harden was once regarded as the worst defender in the NBA. He made strides on that end of the floor years before the general public recognized them. He’s also been widely panned for his ball-dominant brand of basketball. Sure. If Chris Paul hadn’t torn his hamstring in 2018, that ball dominance could have led the Rockets to an NBA championship.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers & Orlando Magic Updates
On the other hand, it does feel like Harden could stand some emotional maturity. At a certain point, when you’re a constant source of negativity, you’ve got to recognize yourself as the common denominator. Should the Magic really bring this guy into their locker room?
Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal
There are two questions any team should ask themselves before making a trade. What are they giving up, and what are they getting back? The Magic shouldn’t be too stressed about what they’re giving up here. Isaac is perhaps the most injury-prone player in the NBA – they’re probably assuming he’ll be hurt next year. So, they’re flipping two role players and a first-round pick for James Harden.
In a vacuum, that sounds absurd. Harden isn’t far removed from perennial MVP consideration. Meanwhile, he’s the type of player that could take this team to the next level. The Magic need a playmaker who can space the floor at the 1. In terms of pure basketball logic, this makes sense. Harden is capable of complimenting Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner and carrying the offense on his own.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers & Orlando Magic Updates
Yes, this is a risk. Harden is a free agent next summer. At the same time, Orlando is parting with very little to acquire him here. In the end, this is a risk worth taking for a rebuilding team looking to take a step forward. Should the Sixers accept pennies on the dollar for Harden?
Why The Philadelphia 76ers Do The Deal
They may have to do exactly that. Frankly, we weren’t sure whether to include the first-round pick in this package. If the Sixers don’t move Harden soon, they may be lucky to even receive a package of this magnitude.
It’s not all bad. If Isaac can reach his potential, this could actually be a steal for the Sixers. All he has to do is stay healthy. When Isaac has taken to the floor, he’s looked like one of the best defensive players in the NBA. Isaac can guard 1-5, and make defensive plays on both the perimeter and the interior.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: James Harden, Philadelphia 76ers & Orlando Magic Updates
In the end, he’ll probably get injured. That’s fine. Both Harris and Okeke are both solid rotation players as well. Throw in a lightly protected first, and this should motivate the Sixers to move off of Harden. Hopefully, he can start working on his legacy in Orlando.
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